Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper isn’t one to wait around. After initially electing to maintain some continuity after taking over ownership, Tepper retained coach Ron Rivera, much of his staff and general manager Marty Hurney. The results were an impressive start to each of the two seasons since, Carolina started 6-2 and 5-3 halfway through 2018 and 2019, respectively – but a late season collapse and beginning decent this year sealed Rivera’s fate.
Losing seven straight one year ago, Rivera and the Panthers were dealt a big blow this season when franchise quarterback Cam Newton was injured during preseason play.